Bible Commentaries
Ezra 6

Verses 1-22

There can be no doubt that Tattenai felt that finding such a decree was unlikely, if not impossible. That the search must have been thorough is indicated by the place where the roll was found. The searchers naturally commenced in the house of the archives in Babylon, but it was not there. It was found at Achmetha, in the royal palace. It is interesting to think how easily it might not have been found. Naturally, if such a document was not found in the proper libraries, men would abandon their search. However, we cannot read this story without realizing that the eye of the God of Israel was on the elders of the Jews. and that all the peoples were in His hand. The search, therefore, was prosecuted until successful. One can easily imagine with what surprise Tattenai received the answer of Darius, characterized by clearness and determination. The man who would have hindered and stayed the progress of the building was compelled not only not to hinder, but to help with great gifts.

How true it is that when a people obey God they at once ensure His cooperation for the accomplishment of their purposes. At last the Temple was finished and solemnly dedicated to God with sacrificial offerings and songs of thanksgiving. On completion of the Temple the great feast of Passover was observed once more, and followed by that of unleavened bread.